Free alcohol for women may be banned in bars along with tastings and "happy hour" offers, according to reports.

The Government’s proposed code for the industry may also include compulsory health warnings, while wine in restaurants would have to be be served in glasses with marked measures.

The Home Office and the Department of Health said the draft proposals are part of a consultation on the Government’s alcohol strategy: Safe, Sensible, Social.

It is aimed at persuading people to drink sensibly, and to cut public drunkenness and associated health and social problems.

Mark Hastings, of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: "At a time when the economy and business is under severe pressure, it is government’s role to support business not send in a wrecking crew with the ball and chain of further regulation."

A Home Office spokesman said: "To help key stakeholders respond to the Department of Health consultation, a draft version of a possible code was sent to them.

"It was made clear to stakeholders that the draft was not a statement of Government policy but for illustrative purposes only. The Department of Health consultation ends on October 14 and no decisions have been taken as yet."